Implants with symmetric shape

ABSTRACT

Implants having symmetry are described. The implant may comprise a biocompatible material and have at least two planes of symmetry, including symmetry about an equator of the implant. The implant may be a body contouring implant, wherein a posterior side of the implant is symmetric about the equator to an anterior side of the implant.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 toU.S. Provisional Application No. 62/703,056, filed on Jul. 25, 2018, theentirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to medicalimplants and related methods of manufacturing and use thereof.

BACKGROUND

Many implants currently available in the market are vulnerable tomisplacement during and/or after implantation in a patient. For example,breast implants, particularly round breast implants, can flip in somecircumstances, such that the posterior, flat surface faces the skinrather than the chest wall. This susceptibility to misplacement cancomplicate the implantation procedure. Care must be taken to maintainthe proper orientation when introducing an implant through smallincision sites and/or tortuous anatomy to avoid irregular positioning atthe implantation site. Implant flipping can occur after implantation,wherein the patient could notice abnormal appearance, such as a lump inthe breast. In addition to aesthetic concerns, this could causeinsecurity on the part of the patient that something went wrong with thesurgery or there is another potentially serious medical issue.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Implants and methods of manufacture and use thereof are described. Thepresent disclosure includes a medical implant comprising a biocompatiblematerial and having at least two planes of symmetry, optionally threeplanes of symmetry, wherein one of the at least two planes of symmetrycorresponds to an equator of the implant. The implant may be a bodycontouring implant, such as a breast implant or a gluteal implant, atissue expander, a sizer, or a tissue dissector, for example, whereinthe posterior side of the implant is symmetric about the equator to theanterior side of the implant. According to some aspects herein, theimplant may have a round shape, an oval shape, or a teardrop shape.

The implants herein may include a shell and a filler, optionally whereinthe shell has a patch affixed thereto. For example, the implant may havea first side and a second side symmetric about the equator, the implantincluding a patch located between an apex of the first side and theequator, or between an apex of the second side and the equator,optionally wherein the patch is located less than or equal to 20 mm fromthe equator, less than or equal to 18.9 mm from the equator, less thanor equal to 15 mm from the equator, less than or equal to 10 mm from theequator, less than or equal to 7.5 mm from the equator, less than orequal to 5.5 mm from the equator, less than or equal to 5 mm from theequator, optionally wherein at least a portion of the patch is locatedat the equator. In some examples, the implant includes a patch having adiameter less than or equal to 30 mm, such as less than or equal to 27mm, less than or equal to 25 mm, less than or equal to 20 mm, or lessthan or equal to 19 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the implant mayinclude a label imprinted thereon for identifying the implant,optionally wherein the label includes a name and/or location of amanufacturer, an implant model number, one or more size dimensions, adate of manufacture, or a combination thereof. For example, the labelmay be printed on the patch. The implants herein may include atransponder, optionally disposed in a filler proximate an apex (e.g.,posterior apex or anterior apex) of the implant.

In some examples, the implant is a breast implant comprising a filler inthe form of a fluid, e.g., a gel filler, having a viscosity orpenetration value suitable for simulating movement of natural breasttissue. For example, the filler may comprise a gel having a penetrationvalue ( 1/10 mm) ranging from about 10 to about 60.

At least a portion of an outer surface, or the entire outer surface, ofthe implant may be texturized with surface features on the order ofnanometers to micrometers. Optionally the implant comprises a shell thatincludes a patch, the outer surface of the patch being texturized withsurface features on the order of nanometers to micrometers.

The present disclosure further includes use of the implants herein,including any of the implant described above or elsewhere herein, in aminimally-invasive implantation procedure.

The present disclosure further includes a method of manufacturing suchimplants. For example, the methods herein include manufacturing animplant comprising a biocompatible material, wherein the implantcomprises a shell that includes exactly one low diffusion barrier theforms an outermost surface of the shell. In some examples, preparing ashell of the implant may comprise applying a first silicone dispersionto a surface of a mold to form at least one first layer of the shell;and applying a second silicone dispersion to the at least one firstlayer to form at least one second layer; wherein the first siliconedispersion or the second silicone dispersion comprises a coloredsilicone elastomer that includes a dye or a pigment, and the other ofthe first silicone dispersion or the second silicone dispersion does notinclude a dye or a pigment. The second silicone dispersion may comprise,for example, the colored silicone elastomer, the at least one secondlayer being a low diffusion barrier layer, optionally wherein the secondsilicone dispersion comprises from about 0.01% to about 0.05% by weightof the blue silicone elastomer, with respect to the total weight of thesecond silicone dispersion. The colored silicone elastomer may be blue,green, yellow, pink, orange, or purple, for example. According to someaspects herein, the method includes applying 2, 3, 4, or 5 first layers,and then applying only one second layer over the first layers. Further,the methods of manufacturing may include applying exactly 6 layers, theshell optionally having a total thickness ranging from about 0.010inches to about 0.040 inches before and/or after curing the shell.

The method may further comprise curing the shell, optionally wherein thecuring is performed at a temperature ranging from about 115.0° C. toabout 135.0° C. Additionally or alternatively, the method may compriseremoving the shell from the mold and inverting the shell, optionallywherein a surface of the mold is texturized with surface features on theorder of nanometers to micrometers, such that an outermost surface ofthe shell, when inverted, is texturized. Further, for example, themethod may comprise introducing a gel into a cavity of the shell,optionally wherein the gel has a penetration value ( 1/10 mm) rangingfrom 10 to 60. The method may further comprise applying a patch to ahole of the shell and sealing the patch to the shell, optionally whereinthe patch includes a transponder incorporated between layers of theshell or patch or attached to an inner surface of the shell or patch. Insome examples, the transponder is not attached to the shell or thepatch. The method may further comprise introducing a transponder into acavity of the shell, e.g., before or after introducing a filler into thecavity. Thus, for example, the transponder may be (a) disposed withinthe gel and unattached to an inner surface of the shell, or (b) attachedto an inner surface of the shell or incorporated into a portion of theshell. The method may further comprise heating the implant to cure a geldisposed inside a cavity of the shell, wherein the implant is placed ina substrate, such as in a cavity of a substrate, during the heating tomaintain a symmetrical shape of the implant.

The present disclosure further includes molds for preparing implantsdescribed above and elsewhere herein. For example, the mold may be orcomprise a mandrel comprising a head and a handle, the head having asymmetric shape having at least two planes of symmetry corresponding tothe at least two planes of symmetry of the implant, optionally whereinthe head has a textured surface. The head of the mandrel may be centeredor offset relative to the handle.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate various exemplary embodiments andtogether with the description, serve to explain the principles of thedisclosed embodiments.

FIGS. 1A-1C show cross-sections of an exemplary implant, in accordancewith embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 2A-2C show cross-sections of another exemplary implant, inaccordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 3A-3C show side views of implants with different shallconfigurations, in accordance with embodiments of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 4 shows an exemplary configuration of layers of an implant shell,in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 shows different implants discussed in Example 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The terminology used below may be interpreted in its broadest reasonablemanner, even though it is being used in conjunction with a detaileddescription of certain specific examples of the present disclosure.Indeed, certain terms may even be emphasized below; however, anyterminology intended to be interpreted in any restricted manner will beovertly and specifically defined as such in this Detailed Descriptionsection. Both the foregoing general description and the followingdetailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are notrestrictive of the features, as claimed.

In this disclosure, the term “based on” means “based at least in parton.” The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referentsunless the context dictates otherwise. The term “exemplary” is used inthe sense of “example” rather than “ideal.” The terms “comprises,”“comprising,” “includes,” “including,” or other variations thereof, areintended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion such that a process, method,or product that comprises a list of elements does not necessarilyinclude only those elements, but may include other elements notexpressly listed or inherent to such a process, method, article, orapparatus. Relative terms, such as, “about” and “generally,” are used toindicate a possible variation of ±5% of a stated or understood value.

As used herein, the term “posterior” refers to the back of a patient,and the term “anterior” refers to the front of a patient. Thus, forexample, the side of a breast implant closest to the skin is theanterior side, while the side of a gluteal implant closest to the skinis the posterior side.

The present disclosure includes implants having a shape that issymmetric, e.g., having at least one plane of symmetry. The implant maybe any type of implant suitable for implantation into the body,including, but not limited to, aesthetic implants such as breast,gluteal, and calf implants. In this way, the implant may be insertedinto a patient such that either side of the implant may face in theposterior direction or the anterior direction.

Symmetrical characteristics of the implant may allow for a similar orthe same projection at the apex of the posterior side of the implant asthe anterior side. The implant may avoid or eliminate issues related tothe potential flipping of the implant after surgery and/or during theimplantation process. Further, having a symmetrical shape may providebenefits in minimally-invasive implantation procedures. For example, theability to introduce the implant in different orientations may allow fora smaller-sized incision. The implants herein may be implanted into apatient in a hybrid-type procedure, e.g., as disclosed in PCTApplication PCT/US19/38536, which claims the priority from U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/688,778 filed on Jun. 22, 2018, byintroducing a filler material such as autologous fat together with theimplant during the implantation procedure.

In some examples herein, the implant is a body contouring implant. Forexample, the body contouring implant may have a plane of symmetry alongits equator, corresponding to an xy plane (the length dimension xextending in the direction from top to bottom of the implant, and thewidth dimension y extending in the direction from left to right of theimplant). Such implants may have a generally round, oval, or teardropshape.

FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C show an exemplary implant 100 having a round oroval shape, the implant 100 having symmetry in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the present disclosure. Such implants include, forexample, body contouring implants such as breast implants, pectoralimplants, gluteal implants, as well as other types of implantsassociated with aesthetic and/or reconstructive procedures, such assizers (e.g., breast sizers or any device that is configured to definethe final size of the implant), tissue expanders (e.g., breast expanderor any temporary implant used for reconstruction s), and tissuedissectors (e.g., breast dissectors or any device that is configured toseparate the tissue or muscle in order to create the space to place apermanent implant). FIG. 1A shows a cross-sectional view of the implant100 in the xz plane, FIG. 1B shows a cross-sectional view of the implant100 in the yz plane, and FIG. 1C shows a cross-sectional view of theimplant 100 in the xy plane. The xy plane corresponds to a planegenerally parallel to the chest wall of a patient when the implant isimplanted, referred to as the equator 102. Thus, FIG. 1C depicts across-section of the implant 100 along the equator 102. The upper andlower portions of the implant 100 are separated by the yz plane, and theleft and right portions of the implant 100 are separated by the xzplane.

As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the implant 100 has symmetry about the xyplane (above and below the equator 102), such that the anterior side andposterior side of the implant are symmetric. That is, a first side 104is symmetric to a second side 106 about the equator 102, such that thefirst side 104 may correspond to the posterior side and the second side104 may correspond to the anterior side, or vice versa, when implantedin a patient. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1C, the implant 100 also hassymmetry about the yz plane, such that the upper and lower sides of theimplant 100 are symmetric to each other (see upper and lower sides 108,110). As shown in FIGS. 1B and 1C, the implant 100 further has symmetryabout the xz plane, such that the left and right sides of the implant100 are symmetric to each other (see left and right sides 112, 114).Thus, the implant 100 has at least three planes of symmetry.

Other exemplary implants may have at least one plane of symmetry, butfewer than three planes of symmetry. For example, the implant may have ateardrop shape. Such implants include, for example, body contouringimplants such as breast implants, pectoral implants, gluteal implants,and facial implants. FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C show cross-sectional views ofan exemplary implant 200 that has a teardrop shape, in accordance withone or more embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2A shows across-sectional view of the implant 200 in the xz plane, and FIG. 2Bshows a cross-sectional view of the implant 200 in the yz plane, whereinthe equator 202 lies along the xy plane. FIG. 2C shows a cross-sectionalview of the implant 200 in the xy plane, along the equator 202. Theimplant 200 has symmetry about the xy plane (above and below the equator202 in FIGS. 2A and 2B, corresponding to the anterior and posteriorsides 204, 206 when implanted), and about the xz plane (see left andright sides 208, 210 in FIGS. 2B and 2C). The implant 200 does not havesymmetry about the yz plane (see upper and lower sides 212, 214 in FIG.2A and FIG. 2C). In this example, the implant 200 has two planes ofsymmetry. Additional examples of body contouring implants and othertypes of implants are included herein.

One or more surfaces of the implant may have a surface texture (e.g.,microtexture or nanotexture) to promote biocompatibility. For example,the implant may have a surface texture as disclosed in WO 2017/196973,WO 2015/121686, and/or WO 2017/093528, each incorporated by referenceherein. For example, the surface texture may include uniform surfacefeatures on the order of nanometers to micrometers.

According to some examples herein, the implant may comprise a shell anda filler (e.g., a fluid such as a gel or a liquid) inside a cavityformed by the shell. The shell and the filler may each comprise abiocompatible material, such as silicone. Any of the materials and/orfeatures discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,901,438, US 2015/0150675, and/orWO 2017/196973, each incorporated by reference herein, may be used forthe implants herein.

The shell of the implant may comprise a biocompatible material, e.g.,formed as a plurality of layers. An outer and/or inner surface of theshell may have a surface texture, e.g., as disclosed in WO 2017/196973,WO 2015/121686, and/or WO 2017/093528, each incorporated by referenceherein.

According to some examples herein, the implant may comprise a shellhaving a total thickness ranging from about 0.010 inches to about 0.040inches, such as from about 0.013 inches to about 0.040 inches, fromabout 0.010 inches to about 0.020 inches, from about 0.012 inches toabout 0.015 inches, from about 0.010 inches to about 0.015 inches, fromabout 0.013 inches to about 0.025 inches, from about 0.015 inches toabout 0.030 inches, or from about 0.020 inches to about 0.040 inches.The shell may comprise at least one layer or a plurality of layers,e.g., having a total thickness of at least 0.01 inches, at least 0.012inches, at least 0.015 inches, at least 0.02 inches, at least 0.025inches, at least 0.03 inches, at least 0.035 inches, or at least 0.04inches. Elongation and ultimate break force of the shell can be measuredaccording to Non-active surgical implants—Mammary implants—Particularrequirements ISO 14607:2018.

According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the implant shellmay comprise a plurality of layers. For example, the shell may comprisefrom 1 to 15 layers, from 2 to 8 layers, from 3 to 7 layers, from 4 to15 layers, from 6 to 8 layers, from 10 to 13 layers, or from 12 layersto 15 layers. For example, the shell may comprise at least 1, 2, 3, 4,5, 6, or 7 or more layers, e.g., 2 to 15 layers, 3 to 7 layers, 1 to 5layers, or 4 to 8 layers. In some cases, one or more of the layers, orall of the layers, may comprise silicone. For example, one or more ofthe layers, or all of the layers, may comprise polydimethylsiloxane.

According to some examples herein, the shell comprises at least twodifferent types of layers, e.g., having different chemical compositions.In some examples, the number of each of the two types of layers may be1, 2, or 3 layers. Each layer may have the same thickness, or one ormore layers may have a thickness different from one or more other layersof the shell. The shell may include at least two layers including acolored layer, e.g., a low diffusion barrier layer. One or more lowdiffusion barrier layers may be useful, for example, for implantsintended to remain in the body for a relatively long period of time,e.g., to inhibit leakage of materials within the implant into the body.For example body contouring implants such as breast implant with afiller may include one or more low diffusion barrier layers. In somecases, e.g., for implants that do not include a filler and/or implantsintended to be placed within the body for a relatively shorter amount oftime, the implant does not include a low diffusion barrier layer. Forexample, such implant may include a single type of layer, e.g., one ormore layers having the same chemical composition. Exemplary implantsthat do not comprise a barrier layer may include, for example, sizers,tissue expanders, and tissue dissectors.

When present, the barrier layer(s) may have any desired color, such asblue, green, yellow, pink, orange, purple, or other colors. In somecases, the barrier layer has the same color as other layers (includingnon-barrier layers) present in the shell. The low diffusion barrierlayer(s) may have a chemical composition different from the chemicalcomposition of other layers. For example, the barrier layer(s) maycomprise a silicone elastomer having a polysiloxane backbone andsubstituted or pendant functional groups that inhibit permeation ofsilicone through the layer. The silicone elastomer may comprisepolydimethylsiloxane. Exemplary functional groups include, but are notlimited to, phenyl groups and fluorine groups. For example, the barrierlayer(s) may comprise silicone substituted with one or more diphenylgroups, methylphenyl groups, trifluorpropyl groups, and combinationsthereof.

FIG. 4 shows an exemplary configuration of shell layers, in accordancewith some aspects of the present disclosure. As illustrated, the shell400 comprises a plurality of layers, including one or two types oflayers. For example, the shell may comprise one or more first layers 402and one or more second layers 404. In this example, the shell 400 isdepicted with five first layers 402 and one second layer 404, however,the shell may include more or fewer than five first layers and/or morethan one second layer 404. FIG. 4 shows the second layer 404 as theinnermost layer of the shell, (e.g., in contact with a filler 406enclosed within the shell 400). In other examples, the shell may includetwo or more second layers positioned as the outermost layer(s) of theshell or between two first layers 402. Further, the shell may includetwo or more second layers 404 with one or more first layers 402 betweenthe second layers 404.

The second layer(s) 404 may have a different chemical composition thanthe first layer(s) 402. For example, the second layer(s) may be lowdiffusion barrier layer(s), which may minimize or prevent diffusion ofthe filler though the wall of the shell (e.g., to minimize or preventfiller from leaking outside the implant). As depicted in FIG. 4, the lowdiffusion barrier layer(s) may form the innermost layer of the shell,next to the filler 406, such as saline solution or a gel (e.g., siliconegel). The layers of the shell may lie in direct contact with each other,such that the outer and/or inner surface of one layer is entirelycovered by an adjacent layer.

The implant may include a patch, e.g., affixed to the shell. Forexample, the shell may be prepared by a molding process that leaves anopening in the shell, wherein the patch is affixed to the shell to coverthe opening. In an exemplary process, a mandrel may be used to prepare abody contouring implant, such as a breast implant. The patch maycomprise the same or different material(s) as the shell. The implantsherein may include a patch having any of the features of patchesdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,901,438 and/or WO 2017/196973, eachincorporated by reference herein.

The patch may be located at any suitable position along the shell. FIGS.3A, 3B, and 3C illustrate, in side view, examples of implants 300, 320,340 with patches 302, 322, 342 placed at different locations, inaccordance with the present disclosure. Each implant 300, 320, 340 issymmetric about the xy plane about its equator 306, 326, 346,respectively, each implant 300, 320, 340 having two apices 304, 324, 344opposite each other, corresponding to a posterior side apex and ananterior side apex. FIG. 3C shows an implant 340 having a patch 342 atone of the two apices 344.

According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the implant mayinclude a patch located in a position other than an apex. For example,FIGS. 3A and 3B show implants 300, 320 having respective patches 302,322 located between an apex 304, 324 and the equator 306, 326, of eachimplant. The shortest distance between the patch and the equator (e.g.,a shortest distance d in FIG. 3B) may be greater than zero and/or lessthan about 25 mm, such as a distance of at least 1 mm, at least 2 mm, atleast 5.5 mm, at least 7 mm, at least 9 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 13mm, at least 15 mm, at least 18 mm, at least 19 mm, at least 20 mm, atleast 22 mm, or at least 24 mm. Additionally or alternatively, theshortest distance between the patch and the equator may be greater thanzero and less than or equal to 30 mm, less than or equal to 25 mm, lessthan or equal to 20 mm, less than or equal to 19 mm, less than or equalto 18 mm, less than or equal to 15 mm, less than or equal to 13 mm, lessthan or equal to 10 mm, less than or equal to 9 mm, less than or equalto 7 mm, less than or equal to 5 mm, less than or equal to 3 mm, lessthan or equal to 2 mm, or less than or equal to 1 mm. For example, theshortest distance between the patch and the equator may range from about1 mm to about 30 mm, about 5 mm to about 25 mm, about 10 mm to about 20mm, about 1 mm to about 5 mm, about 3 mm to about 7 mm, about 5 mm toabout 10 mm, about 2 mm to about 12 mm, about 7 mm to about 15 mm, about3 mm to about 6 mm, about 8 mm to about 12 mm, about 7 mm to about 9 mm,about 10 mm to about 15 mm, or about 17 mm to about 23 mm, e.g., as ashortest distance of about 3 mm, about 3.5 mm, about 4 mm, about 4.5 mm,about 5 mm, about 5.5 mm, about 6 mm, about 6.5 mm, or about 7 mm. Insome examples, at least a portion of the patch is located at theequator. For example, the center of the patch may lie along or proximatethe equator, e.g., located at an angle of about 90 degrees relative tothe posterior side apex and/or anterior side apex.

The shape of the patch may be generally circular, elliptical, orpolygonal (e.g., triangular, square, rectangular, pentagonal, etc.). Thewidth and/or length of the patch (diameter in the case of a circularshape) may range from about 10 mm to about 40 mm. For example, the patchmay have a length, width, and/or diameter ranging from about 10 mm toabout 35 mm, about 15 mm to about 25 mm, about 10 mm to about 15 mm,about 12 mm to about 18 mm, about 24 mm to about 28 mm, about 20 mm toabout 25 mm, or about 25 mm to about 35 mm.

According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the implant mayinclude text (e.g., letters, words, numbers, signs, and/or symbols)imprinted thereon. For example, the implant may include one or morelabels with identifying information, such as the name and/or location ofthe manufacturer, the model number, size dimensions (e.g., diameter,volume, projection, etc.), the date of manufacture, and/or otheridentifying information. The label(s) may be located on or incorporatedinto the outer surface of the implant. In the case of an implant with ashell, such as a breast implant or other body contouring implant, one ormore labels may be imprinted onto or into a portion of the shell or acomponent coupled to the shell.

For example, the implant may include a patch as discussed above, whereinthe patch includes text imprinted thereon useful for identifying theimplant. In some cases, the text may be imprinted into the outer surfaceof the patch, such that the text is raised relative to the remainder ofthe outer surface of the implant. Additionally or alternatively, theprinting surface may be reversed, wherein the text is recessed relativeto the remainder of the outer surface of the implant and/or imprintedinto the inner surface of the patch that contacts the filler of theimplant. Having a reversed printing surface may help to promote symmetryof the implant and avoid an irregular outer surface that could lead toadverse reactions upon contact with breast tissue once implanted. Insome examples, the outer surface of the implant may include a label thatdoes not have raised text, the printing surface being reversed. Further,for example, a portion of the outer surface of the implant other thanthe patch may include a label.

The outer surface of the patch may be texturized, e.g., with the same ordifferent surface texture as adjacent surfaces of the surrounding shell.For example, the patch may have any of the surface characteristicsdisclosed in WO 2017/196973, WO 2015/121686, and/or WO 2017/093528, eachincorporated by reference herein. When the patch has the same orsubstantially the same surface texture as the remainder of the shell,the implant may have a homologous surface texture. The filler of theimplants herein may comprise a fluid, such as a gel, a liquid, or a gas.Exemplary gels include, but are not limited to, silicone and otherbiocompatible polymers. Exemplary liquids include, but are not limitedto, saline solution. Exemplary gases include, but are not limited to,air. Additionally or alternatively, the filler may comprise a solidmaterial, such as a biocompatible scaffold, optionally a biocompatiblepolymer. According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the fillermay comprise a gel having a viscosity suitable for simulating naturaltissue, e.g., the gel being responsive to gravity such that the maximumpoint of projection of the implant changes as the patient moves from astanding position to a supine position. Exemplary gels suitable forfillers herein may have a gel penetration value ( 1/10 mm) ranging fromabout 10 to about 60. for example, the implants herein may comprise agel filler having a penetration value ( 1/10 mm) ranging from about 10to about 30, from about 20 to about 35, from about 50 to about 60, fromabout 35 to about 55, from about 15 to about 30, or from about 10 toabout 20. The penetration value is a factor that measures the firmnessof a colloid, such as a silicone gel. The penetration value may bemeasured according to standard ISO 14607:2018. The combination of shellelasticity and gel viscosity may provide certain benefits forimplantation in a minimally-invasive procedure, e.g., in an incision ofabout 2 cm or smaller.

The implants herein may include information useful in identifying and/orcharacterizing the implant. In some aspects of the present disclosure,the implant may include an orientation mark (e.g., a radiopaque marker),a traceability device such as a radio-frequency identification (RFID)device and/or one or more sensors. For example, the implant may includea unique device identifier (UDI), optionally coupled to, or otherwiseincorporated into, a portion of the implant shell and/or patch. The UDImay include, for example, a transponder. In cases in which the implantshell includes a patch, the transponder may be located proximate thepatch (e.g., positioned proximate an inner surface of the patch) or maybe located in an area of the implant different from the patch(including, e.g., proximate an inner surface of the shell spaced apartfrom the patch).

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate exemplary transponders 308, 328, 348 (alsoreferred to as micro-transponders) associated with the respectiveimplants 300, 320, 340. The transponder may be in any area at orproximate an apex (e.g., posterior apex or anterior apex) and/or may beproximate the patch. For example, FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate exampleswherein the transponders 308, 328 are disposed within filler at orproximate the posterior apex or anterior apex, while the patches 302,322 are located between the posterior or anterior apex and the equator,while FIG. 3C illustrates an example wherein the transponder 348 and thepatch 342 are both at or proximate the posterior or anterior apex. Insome examples, the transponder may be disposed within the filler nearthe patch but not attached to or otherwise coupled to the patch. Inother examples, the transponder may be coupled to an inner surface ofthe shell or patch, or disposed between two layers of the shell orpatch, for example, if desired to have the transponder located at aposition other than the posterior or anterior apex.

The transponder may have RFID capability, for post-implantation devicerecognition and traceability. For example, information stored in thetransponder may be readable by an external device, such as an RFIDreader. Any of the transponders and/or readers disclosed in U.S. Pat.Nos. 9,673,516 and/or 10,176,412, each incorporated by reference herein,may be included in the implants of the present disclosure. Exemplarytransponders may comprise, for example, an antenna assembly comprisingferromagnetic and/or non-ferromagnetic materials.

In at least one example, the implant comprises a transponder that doesnot include ferromagnetic materials. For example, the transponder maycomprise one or more plastics, such as poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK), aceramic, silica, or other non-ferromagnetic material(s). Accordingly,the implant may be compatible with diagnostic imaging procedures, suchas magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The antenna assembly of thetransponder may comprise a conductive, non-ferromagnetic material, suchas copper or aluminum, among other suitable non-ferromagnetic metals.Such metals may be in the form of a metal wire, optionally an enameledwire, e.g., configured into an coil wound around a non-ferromagneticcore.

As mentioned above, the implant shell may be prepared by dip molding.For example, each layer may be formed by dipping a mold (e.g., amandrel) into a dispersion, e.g., comprising a silicone material, andwaiting a period of time sufficient for the solvent to volatilize(devolatilization time), such that the dispersion forms a layer. Themold may have a symmetric shape in order to produce an implant shellwith the desired symmetry as discussed above. For example, a mandrel mayhave a head that is generally round, oval, or teardrop shape, themandrel having a handle or stem coupled to or protruding from the headfor gripping during the dip-molding process. When it is desired for thepatch to be located at an apex (e.g., anterior apex or posterior apex),the head of the mandrel may be centered relative to the handle so as toleave an opening in the shell at the apex. When it is desired for thepatch to be located in a position other than an apex (e.g., between theequator and the anterior apex or posterior apex), the head of themandrel may be offset relative to the handle so as to leave an openingbetween the apex and the equator. That is, a longitudinal axis of thehandle is offset from a z-axis of the head of the mandrel that connectsthe two apices of the head.

Exemplary dispersions suitable for forming silicone layers for animplant shell according to the present disclosure are discussed below.The dispersions for preparing the first layer(s) 402 and the secondlayer(s) 404, and/or additional layers may be a silicone dispersion,e.g., prepared from two components.

For example, to prepare the first layer(s) 402, a first dispersion maybe prepared from a two-part curable system (part A and part B), e.g.,using a platinum catalyst. Each component/part may comprise a dispersionof siloxanes and silicones. For example, part A may comprise a highstrength silicone dispersion of siloxanes and silicones, dimethyl, vinylgroup-terminated and silanamine, 1,1,1-trimethyl-N(trimethylsilyl)-,hydrolysis products with silica. Part B may comprise a high strengthsilicone dispersion of siloxanes and silicones, dimethyl, vinylgroup-terminated and siloxanes and silicones, dimethyl, methyl hydrogen.

Further, for example, to prepare the second layer(s) 404 (e.g., lowdiffusion barrier layer(s)), a second dispersion may be prepared alsofrom a two-part curable system (part A and part B), e.g., using aplatinum catalyst, optionally with a pigment or dye (e.g., in the formof a colored liquid silicone elastomer) to result in a coloreddispersion. Incorporating a pigment or dye may assist in quality controlto visually confirm that the low diffusion barrier layer(s) are presentand continuous throughout the shell. Part A may comprise a siliconedispersion comprising xylenes (o-, m-, p-isomers) and silanamine,1,1,1-trimethyl-N(trimethylsilyl)-, hydrolysis products with silica.Part B may comprise a silicone dispersion comprising xylenes (o-, m-,p-isomers), silanamine, 1,1,1-trimethyl-N(trimethylsilyl)-, hydrolysisproducts with silica, siloxanes and silicones, dimethyl, methyl hydrogenand cyclohexanol, 1-ethynyl-. The colored dispersion may comprise asilicone elastomer having any desired color, such as blue, green,yellow, pink, orange, purple, etc. For example, a blue second layer 404may be prepared from a liquid silicone elastomer comprising pigment blue15:2, phthalo blue (NC a-Form), phthalocyanine blue bs, or(29H,31H-phthalocyaninato(2-)-N29,N30,N31,N32)copper. Otherbiocompatible dyes and/or pigments compatible with silicone dispersionsmay be used in the shell layer(s), e.g., one or more second layers 404,for the implants herein.

For either of the first dispersion used to prepare first layer(s) 402and/or the second dispersion used to prepare the second layer(s) 404,parts A and B may be combined in a weight ratio ranging from about 1:2to about 2:1, such as in a ratio of about 1:1. In some embodiments, foreach layer, parts A and B may be combined in a weight ratio at leastabout 1:10, 1:9, 1:8, 1:7, 1:6, 1:5, 1:4, 1:3, 1:2, 1:1, or more. Insome embodiments, for each layer of the implant shell, parts A and B maybe combined in a weight ratio at most about 10:1, 9:1, 8:1, 7:1, 6:1,5:1, 4:1, 3:1, 2:1, 1:1, or less. An organic solvent, such as xylene,may be added to achieve a desired viscosity or range of viscosity.

For the dispersion used to prepare the second layer(s) 404 (e.g., lowdiffusion barrier layer(s)), the amount of the colored liquid siliconeelastomer (containing the pigment or dye) may range from about 0.01% toabout 0.05% by weight, such as from about 0.01% to about 0.05% byweight, with respect to the weight of the dispersion formed from mixingpart A and part B. For example, the second dispersion used to preparelow diffusion barrier layers 404 may comprise part A and part B in aweight ratio of about 1:1, and from 0.01% to about 0.05% by weight ofpigment blue 15:2, phthalo blue (NC a-Form), phthalocyanine blue bs, or(29H,31H-phthalocyaninato(2-)-N29,N30,N31,N32)copper. The amount of thecolored liquid silicone elastomer may be at least 0.01%, at least 0.05%,at least 0.1%, at least 0.15%, at least 0.2%, at least 0.3%, at least0.4%, or at least 0.5% by weight with respect to the weight of thedispersion formed from mixing part A and part B. Additionally oralternatively, the amount of the colored liquid silicone elastomer maybe less than or equal to 0.5%, less than or equal to 0.4%, less than orequal to 0.3%, less than or equal to 0.2%, less than or equal to 0.1%,less than or equal to 0.05%, less than or equal to 0.03%, or less thanor equal to 0.01% by weight with respect to the weight of the dispersionformed from mixing part A and part B.

Exemplary methods of manufacturing implant shells according to thepresent disclosure may comprise one or more steps of testingdispersions, mixing the dispersions, molding a shell (dip-molding),curing the shell, removing the shell from the mold, and/or performingquality inspections. Methods of manufacturing according to the presentdisclosure may comprise some, but not all, of the steps discussed above.The methods herein may be used to manufacture a plurality of shellssimultaneously.

In an exemplary method, a silicone dispersion may be prepared for eachtype of layer 402, 404 to be included in the implant shell. Part A andpart B for each type of dispersion may be mixed in a suitable ratio asdiscussed above, such as a 1:1 ratio, a 1:2 ratio, a 2:1 ratio, or a1:1.5 ratio. A solvent may be added to obtain a desired viscosity or arange of viscosities, as described herein. For the second layer(s) 404(e.g., low diffusion barrier layer(s)), a pigment, optionally in theform of a colored liquid silicone elastomer, may be added once part Aand part B have been combined. The viscosity in combination with thesolvent devolatilization time may allow for the shell substantially freeof, or having no cosmetic defects, and within a thickness or a range ofthickness.

Molds may be selected according to the type of implant desired. Forexample, the molds suitable for use herein may have a symmetric shape,having at least one plane of symmetry. Then, the mold may be introducedinto the selected dispersion (e.g., a first dispersion for preparing afirst layer 402) to coat the mold for a period of time equal to thedevolatilization time, and then the coated mold may be re-introducedinto the same dispersion (e.g., the first dispersion to prepare anotherfirst layer 402) or a different dispersion (e.g., a second dispersionfor preparing a second layer 404) to build another layer in the shell.Dip molding may be repeated until the desired number of layers and totalshell thickness are achieved. Exemplary devolatilization times may rangefrom about 10 minutes to about 45 minutes, such as from about 15 minutesto about 35 minutes, from about 20 minutes to about 40 minutes, fromabout 10 minutes to about 20 minutes, or from about 35 minutes to about45 minutes. The devolatilization time may be at least 5 minutes, 10minutes, 15 minutes, 20 minutes, 25 minutes, 30 minutes, 35 minutes, 40minutes, 45 minutes, or longer. In some embodiments, thedevolatilization time may be at most 45 minutes, 40 minutes, 35 minutes,30 minutes, 25 minutes, 20 minutes, 15 minutes, 10 minutes, 5 minutes,or shorter.

Table 1 below illustrates several exemplary 6-layer shells that includetwo different types of layers, e.g., one or more first layers 402 andone or more second layers 404, wherein the second layer(s) 404 have adifferent chemical composition than the first layer(s) 402. The secondlayer(s) 404 optionally may be low diffusion barrier layer(s), or may benon-barrier layers having a different chemical composition than othernon-barrier layer(s). In Table 1, implant shell A corresponds to theexample shown in FIG. 4. For example, to prepare implant shell A,wherein a mold (e.g., mandrel for a body contouring implant) may bedipped into a first dispersion to form a layer 402 next to the moldsurface. After the devolatilization time, the coated mold may be againdipped into the first dispersion to form an additional layer 402; andafter the devolatilization time, the coated mold may again dipped intothe first dispersion to form an additional layer 402, and so on, untilthe coated mold is dipped into a second dispersion to form a secondlayer 402, as a low diffusion barrier layer. A person of ordinary skillin the art will recognize that the configurations in Table 1 areexemplary only, and fewer or more than 6 layers may be prepared, andlayers may be provided in a different order.

TABLE 1 Type of Layer A B C layer 1 402 404 402 (next to mold surface)layer 2 402 402 402 layer 3 402 402 404 layer 4 402 402 404 layer 5 402402 402 layer 6 404 402 402 (farthest from mold surface)

The shell may be cured to catalyze polymerization of the material of theshell (e.g., silicone). When the dispersion comprises silicone, forexample, curing may crosslink the silicone layers. The curingtemperature may range from about 115.0° C. to about 135.0° C., such asfrom about 120.0° C. to about 130.0° C., from about 122.0° C. to about128.0° C., from about 125.0° C. to about 130.0° C., or from about 125.0°C. to about 135.0° C. For example, the curing temperature may be 125.0°C.±5.0° C. The curing temperature may be at least 100.0° C., 105.0° C.,110.0° C., 115.0° C., 120.0° C., 125.0° C., 130.0° C., 135.0° C., 140.0°C., or higher. The curing temperature may be at most 140.0° C., 135.0°C., 130.0° C., 125.0° C., 120.0° C., 115.0° C., 110.0° C., 105.0° C.,100.0° C., or less. Curing may be performed for a period of time (orcuring time) ranging from about 60 minutes to about 100 minutes, such asfrom about 70 minutes to about 90 minutes, from about 85 minutes toabout 95 minutes, or from about 80 minutes to about 90 minutes. Thecuring time may be 82.0±5.0 minutes or 85.0±2.0 minutes. The curing timemay be at least about 50 minutes, 55 minutes, 60 minutes, 65 minutes, 70minutes, 75 minutes, 80 minutes, 85 minutes, 90 minutes, 95 minutes, 100minutes, or longer. In some embodiments, the curing time may be at mostabout 100 minutes, 95 minutes, 90 minutes, 85 minutes, 80 minutes, 75minutes, 70 minutes, 65 minutes, 60 minutes, 55 minutes, 50 minutes, orshorter.

The shell may be removed from the mold after curing. The shell may thenbe inverted, such that the layer farthest from the mold defines theinnermost surface of the shell, and the layer formerly in contact withthe mold defines the outermost surface of the shell.

In some cases, the mold surface may have a texture, such that theoutermost surface of the implant is texturized. For example, the shellmay be prepared using a mandrel having a texturized surface, optionallywherein the surface of the mandrel has been texturized usingsandblasting with abrasive particles to achieve the desired surfacefeatures (a mirror image of the desired peaks, valleys, roughness,kurtosis, density of contact points, etc.). In some examples, the shellmay be prepared using a mandrel as described in WO 2017/196973,incorporated by reference herein.

The shell optionally may be inspected for quality, e.g., to identify anddiscard any shells with defects. In some cases, the thickness of theshell may be measured, for example, at various locations of the shell.

As mentioned above, the implant may comprise a filler, which may beintroduced into a cavity formed by the shell, such that the fillerpartially or completely fills the cavity. In some examples herein, thefiller comprises a silicone gel. The silicone gel may be prepared bycombining a first mixture and a second mixture. The first mixture maycomprise mixture of siloxanes and silicones, dimethyl, and vinylgroup-terminated. The second mixture may comprise mixture of siloxanesand silicones, dimethyl, methyl hydrogen, dimethyl, and vinylgroup-terminated. To prepare the filter, the first mixture may be mixedwith the second mixture in a ratio that provides a suitable gelpenetration value, such as between 50-60 1/10 mm. In some embodiments,the first mixture and the second mixture may be combined in a weightratio ranging from about 1:2 to about 2:1, such as in a ratio of about1:1. In some embodiments, the first mixture and the second mixture maybe combined in a weight ratio (first mixture:second mixture) rangingfrom about 1:4 to about 4:1 (about 0.25 to about 4), such as a weightratio ranging from about 1:3 to about 3:1 (about 0.33 to about 3), orabout 1:2 to about 2:1 (about 0.5 to about 2). For example, the weightratio of the first mixture to the second mixture may range from about0.5 to about 2, about 1 to about 3.5, about 2.5 to about 3.5, about 3 toabout 3.3, or about 2.8 to about 3.2. In some examples, the firstmixture and the second mixture may be combined in a weight ratio (firstmixture:second mixture) of at least 1:10, 1:9, 1:8, 1:7, 1:6, 1:5, 1:4,1:3, 1:2, 1:1, or more. Further, for example, the first mixture and thesecond mixture may be combined in a weight ratio (first mixture:secondmixture) at most about 10:1, 9:1, 8:1, 7:1, 6:1, 5:1, 4:1, 3:1, 2:1,1:1, or less.

Implants may be assembled by introducing the filler material into theshell, which may occur before or after securing a patch to the shell. Insome examples, a patch may be affixed to the shell before introducing afiller material into a cavity defined by the shell. For example, asilicone patch corresponding to the dimensions of an aperture resultingfrom the molding process may be applied and vulcanized to seal the patchto the shell. Optionally, the shell may be leak-tested to confirm thatthe patch has been securely attached. The patch then may be cured, e.g.,with heat and/or pressure. A suitable filler material, e.g., siliconegel, may be introduced into the shell, such as by injection through thepatch. In some examples, the filler may be introduced into the shell to100% or less the nominal volume defined by the mold (e.g., the head of amandrel) in order to reach the desired final shape.

Before or after introducing the filler, the process may includeintroducing a UDI, e.g., a transponder, into the implant. For example,the transponder may be placed inside the shell before affixing the patchto the shell, after affixing the patch to the shell but before injectinga filler, or after injecting a filler into the cavity of the shell. Thetransponder may be heavier than the filler, such that the transponderfalls by gravity to rest against the inner surface of the shell, thetransponder being movable through the filler prior to curing of thefiller. The implant optionally may be vacuum tested, e.g., to remove airbubbles, and then the implant may be sealed. For example, the fillinghole in the patch may be closed with a suitable adhesive, such as acurable, silicone-based adhesive.

Finally, the filler may be cured, e.g., in a gel curing cycle. Theimplant may be placed in a cavity of a substrate, such as a curing cuphaving a concave surface for receiving the implant, in order to maintainthe symmetrical shape (e.g., symmetry of posterior and anterior apices)during the curing process. In some examples, the substrate may comprisea heat-safe material, such as a ceramic. The implant then may beinspected for quality (to identify and discard implants with defects).

Non-limiting examples of implants according to the present disclosureinclude the following:

In at least one example, the implant is a round-shaped body contouringimplant comprising a silicone shell and silicone gel filler, wherein theshell includes a patch at or proximate a posterior or anterior apex ofthe shell. The patch may by generally circular in shape and have adiameter of about 25 mm to about 30 mm, such as about 26 mm, about 27mm, about 28 mm, or about 29 mm. The implant may have three plane ofsymmetry, e.g., about the xy plane (posterior side symmetric to anteriorside), about the xz plane (the left side symmetric to the right side),and about the yz plane (the upper portion symmetric to the lowerportion).

In at least one example, the implant is a round-shaped body contouringimplant comprising a silicone shell and silicone gel filler, wherein theshell includes a patch at or proximate a posterior or anterior apex ofthe shell. The patch may by generally circular in shape and have adiameter of about 15 mm to about 25 mm, such as about 16 mm, about 17mm, about 18 mm, about 19 mm, about 20 mm, about 21 mm, about 22 mm,about 23 mm, or about 24 mm. The implant may have three plane ofsymmetry, e.g., about the xy plane (posterior side symmetric to anteriorside), about the xz plane (the left side symmetric to the right side),and about the yz plane (the upper portion symmetric to the lowerportion).

In at least one example, the implant is a round-shaped body contouringimplant comprising a silicone shell and silicone gel filler, wherein theshell includes a patch that is not centered at the posterior or anteriorapex of the shell. That is, the patch is located between an apex and theimplant equator, e.g., the patch having a shortest distance to theequator of about 3 mm to about 7 mm, such as about 3.5 mm, about 4 mm,about 4.5 mm, about 5 mm, about 5.5 mm, about 6 mm, or about 6.5 mmbetween the patch and the equator. For example, the patch may bygenerally circular in shape and have a diameter of about 25 mm to about30 mm, such as about 26 mm, about 27 mm, about 28 mm, or about 29 mm, ora diameter of about 15 mm to about 25 mm, such as about 16 mm, about 17mm, about 18 mm, about 19 mm, about 20 mm, about 21 mm, about 22 mm,about 23 mm, or about 24 mm. The implant may have three planes ofsymmetry, e.g., about the xy plane (posterior side symmetric to anteriorside), about the xz plane (the left side symmetric to the right side),and about the yz plane (the upper portion symmetric to the lowerportion).

In at least one example, the implant is a round-shaped body contouringimplant comprising a silicone shell and silicone gel filler, wherein theshell includes a patch that is not centered at the posterior or anteriorapex of the shell. That is, the patch is located between an apex and theimplant equator, e.g., the patch having a shortest distance to theequator of about 10 mm to about 40 mm, such as about 15 mm to about 25mm, e.g., about 18 mm, about 18.5 mm, about 19 mm, about 19.5 mm, about20 mm, about 20.5 mm, about 21 mm, about 21.5 mm, or about 22 mm betweenthe patch and the equator. For example, the patch may by generallycircular in shape and have a diameter of about 25 mm to about 30 mm,such as about 26 mm, about 27 mm, about 28 mm, or about 29 mm, or adiameter of about 15 mm to about 25 mm, such as about 16 mm, about 17mm, about 18 mm, about 19 mm, about 20 mm, about 21 mm, about 22 mm,about 23 mm, or about 24 mm. The implant may have three planes ofsymmetry, e.g., about the xy plane (posterior side symmetric to anteriorside), about the xz plane (the left side symmetric to the right side),and about the yz plane (the upper portion symmetric to the lowerportion).

The following examples are intended to illustrate the present disclosurewithout, however, being limiting in nature. It is understood that thepresent disclosure encompasses additional embodiments consistent withthe foregoing description and following examples.

EXAMPLES Example 1

Several implants including four breast implants (A, B, C, and D) and aninflatable tissue dissector (E) were prepared according to Table 2. Thepenetration value ( 1/10 mm) of the silicone gel used for breastimplants A-D ranged from 10 to 60, wherein higher penetration valuescorrespond to lower viscosity characteristics.

TABLE 2 Shell Filler Shape Plane(s) of Symmetry Implant A SiliconeSilicone gel Round xz (left/right) yz (upper/lower) Implant B SiliconeSilicone gel Round xz (left/right) yz (upper/lower) Implant C SiliconeSilicone gel Round xz (left/right) yz (upper/lower) xz (left/right)Implant D Silicone Silicone gel Round yz (upper/lower) xy(posterior/anterior) xz (left/right) Implant E Silicone Air Round yz(upper/lower) xy (posterior/anterior)

Photographs of breast implants A-D (side views) are shown in FIG. 5.Implants A-C had flat posterior surfaces and lacked symmetry about thexy plane (about their equators). In comparison, implant D according tothe present disclosure had symmetric posterior and anterior surfaces.The viscosity of the silicone gel used for implant D allowed for the gelto respond to gravity and maintain symmetry provided by the shape of theimplant shell.

Any aspect or feature in any embodiment may be used with any otherembodiment set forth herein. It will be apparent to those skilled in theart that various modifications and variations can be made in thedisclosed implants, implant features, and processes without departingfrom the scope of the disclosure. Other embodiments will be apparent tothose skilled in the art from consideration of the specification andpractice of the disclosure disclosed herein. It is intended that thespecification and examples be considered as exemplary only.

We claim:
 1. A medical implant comprising a biocompatible material andhaving at least two planes of symmetry, wherein one of the at least twoplanes of symmetry corresponds to an equator of the implant.
 2. Theimplant of claim 1, wherein the implant has three planes of symmetry. 3.The implant of claim 1 or 2, wherein the implant is a body contouringimplant chosen from a breast implant or a gluteal implant, a tissueexpander, a sizer, or a tissue dissector, a posterior side of theimplant being symmetric about the equator to an anterior side of theimplant.
 4. The implant of any of the preceding claims, wherein theimplant has a round shape, an oval shape, or a teardrop shape.
 5. Theimplant of any of the preceding claims, wherein the implant includes ashell and a filler, the shell having a patch affixed thereto.
 6. Theimplant of any of the preceding claims, wherein the implant has a firstside and a second side symmetric about the equator, the implantincluding a patch located between an apex of the first side and theequator, or between an apex of the second side and the equator,optionally wherein the patch is located less than or equal to 20 mm fromthe equator, less than or equal to 18.9 mm from the equator, less thanor equal to 15 mm from the equator, less than or equal to 10 mm from theequator, less than or equal to 7.5 mm from the equator, less than orequal to 5.5 mm from the equator, less than or equal to 5 mm from theequator, optionally wherein at least a portion of the patch is locatedat the equator.
 7. The implant of any of the preceding claims, whereinthe implant includes a patch having a diameter less than or equal to 30mm, such as less than or equal to 27 mm, less than or equal to 25 mm,less than or equal to 20 mm, or less than or equal to 19 mm.
 8. Theimplant of any of the preceding claims, wherein the implant includes alabel imprinted thereon for identifying the implant, optionally whereinthe label includes a name and/or location of a manufacturer, an implantmodel number, one or more size dimensions, a date of manufacture, or acombination thereof.
 9. The implant of any of the preceding claims,wherein the implant includes a transponder, optionally wherein thetransponder is disposed in a filler proximate an apex of the implant.10. The implant of any of the preceding claims, wherein the implant is abreast implant comprising a gel filler that has a viscosity orpenetration value suitable for simulating movement of natural breasttissue.
 11. The implant of any of the preceding claims, wherein at leasta portion of an outer surface or the entire outer surface of the implantis texturized with surface features on the order of nanometers tomicrometers, optionally wherein the implant comprises a shell thatincludes a patch, the outer surface of the patch being texturized withsurface features on the order of nanometers to micrometers.
 12. Use ofthe implant of any of the preceding claims in a minimally-invasiveimplantation procedure.
 13. A method of manufacturing the implant of anyof claims 1-11.
 14. A method of manufacturing an implant comprising abiocompatible material, wherein the implant comprises a shell thatincludes exactly one low diffusion barrier the forms an outermostsurface of the shell.
 15. The method of claim 13 or 14, whereinpreparing a shell of the implant comprises: applying a first siliconedispersion to a surface of a mold to form at least one first layer ofthe shell; and applying a second silicone dispersion to the at least onefirst layer to form at least one second layer; wherein the firstsilicone dispersion or the second silicone dispersion comprises acolored silicone elastomer that includes a dye or a pigment, and theother of the first silicone dispersion or the second silicone dispersiondoes not include a dye or a pigment.
 16. The method of claim 15, whereinthe second silicone dispersion comprises the colored silicone elastomer,the at least one second layer being a low diffusion barrier layer,optionally wherein the second silicone dispersion comprises from about0.01% to about 0.05% by weight of the blue silicone elastomer, withrespect to the total weight of the second silicone dispersion.
 17. Themethod of claim 15 or 16, wherein the colored silicone elastomer isblue, green, yellow, pink, orange, or purple.
 18. The method of any ofclaims 15-17, wherein the method includes applying 2, 3, 4, or 5 firstlayers, and then applying only one second layer over the first layers.19. The method of any of claims 15-18, wherein the method includesapplying exactly 6 layers, the shell optionally having a total thicknessranging from about 0.010 inches to about 0.040 inches before and/orafter curing the shell.
 20. The method of any of claims 15-19, furthercomprising curing the shell, optionally wherein the curing is performedat a temperature ranging from about 115.0° C. to about 135.0° C.
 21. Themethod of any of claims 15-20, further comprising removing the shellfrom the mold and inverting the shell, optionally wherein a surface ofthe mold is texturized with surface features on the order of nanometersto micrometers, such that an outermost surface of the shell, wheninverted, is texturized.
 22. The method of any of claims 15-21, furthercomprising introducing a gel into a cavity of the shell, optionallywherein the gel has a penetration value ( 1/10 mm) between 10 and 60.23. The method of any of claims 15-22, further comprising applying apatch to a hole of the shell and sealing the patch to the shell.
 24. Themethod of claim 23, wherein the patch includes a transponderincorporated between layers of the patch or attached to an inner surfaceof the patch.
 25. The method of any of claims 15-23, further comprisingintroducing a transponder into a cavity of the shell.
 26. The method ofclaim 25, wherein the transponder is introduced into the cavity beforeor after introducing a gel into the cavity, the micro-transponder being(a) disposed within the gel and unattached to an inner surface of theshell, or (b) attached to an inner surface of the shell or incorporatedinto a portion of the shell.
 27. The method of claim 25 or 26, whereinthe transponder is introduced into the cavity before or after applying apatch to a hole of the shell.
 28. The method of any of claims 15-27,further comprising heating the implant to cure a gel disposed inside acavity of the shell, wherein the implant is placed in a substrate, suchas in a cavity of a substrate, during the heating to maintain asymmetrical shape of the implant.
 29. The mold used in the method of anyof claims 15-27 to manufacture the implant, wherein the mold is amandrel comprising a head and a handle, the head having a symmetricshape having at least two planes of symmetry corresponding to the atleast two planes of symmetry of the implant, optionally wherein the headhas a textured surface.
 30. The mold of claim 29, wherein the head iscentered relative to the handle.
 31. The mold of claim 29, wherein thehead is offset relative to the handle.